The new ECRR 2 introduces five simple practices kids can engage in that will help them acquire the skills to be ready to read; singing, talking, reading, playing, writing. Most of these skills can be practiced easily at the library with Language Rich Environments. However, when you say write in the library most Librarians will cringe! Keep in mind that you can practice writing without a crayon, pen or pencil or paper. The practice of writing involves the recognition of shapes and letters as well as small motor coordination and then the combination of the two. When trying to incorporate writing in your children’s
space, think of activities that will develop small motor coordination and shape and letter recognition. I am listing a few that I have included in the children’s room at the Lexington Park Library, where I work as well as some I have seen in other spaces.
Magnetic Letters- like those for a refrigerator
Toddler Keyboards on AWE computers- for letter recognition
Bead Mazes- small motor coordination
Touch and See- scribbling and writing shapes and letters
Alphabet Bags- letter recognition
Magna doodles- scribbling and writing shapes and letters
How do you “write” at your library?